COPE condemns the murder of Eugene Terreblanche. We extend our condolences and sympathy to the family and community of which Mr. Terrablanche was a part. 

COPE appeals for calm and urges those who speculating over the reasons or causes of this unfortunate incident to allow the authorities to complete their investigation and bring the murderers to book. 

In times like these political leadership is of great importance and we call on all political leaders to refrain from making inflammatory statements in general that may lead to undesirable responses to this incident.

While we do not wish to suggest any direct responsibility for this act can be attributed to political motives, the ruling party must reflect on the fact that in recent times, utterances by some of its leaders have rolled back the progress made in building racial reconciliation and political tolerance in our country.

Statement issued by Phillip Dexter, MP, COPE head of communications, April 4 2010

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